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When your mirror is showing signs of aging or has a broken surface, it’s time for a replacement. But before you start searching for custom framed mirrors online, you should have a plan to properly dispose of your broken or old mirror. Here’s how to get it done:

1. Take Safety Precautions

Gear up before handling the glass by using safety glasses, thick gloves, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a long-sleeved shirt. This safety gear is useful for protecting your eyes, face, hands, arms, legs, and feet from potentially getting cut by glass shards. Also, have your tools ready in advance to properly label, pack, and clean up any remnants of broken glass from your mirror. Here are some tools and material to have on hand:

Tape

Trash Bags

Boxes

Blankets

Labels

Newspaper

Bubble Wrap

Vacuum

2. Use Tape to Cover Its Surface

If your mirror has cracks or is shattered, you want to prevent it from breaking further and creating a hazard. Use duct tape or masking tape to cover the surface. Any stray pieces of glass will stick to the glue of the tape, so you can avoid the risk of getting hurt as you dispose the mirror.

3. Wrap It and Box It Up

Use bubble wrap or old blankets to wrap up a whole mirror so you can keep it intact and secure. Also, add extra protection by wrapping the mirror with newspaper. Consider placing a broken mirror in a plastic bag and box as an extra precaution. Use labels or write on the outside of the box so handlers can be aware of the broken glass.

4. Dispose of It or Consider a Recycling Center

Carefully place the mirror in the proper container to get rid of it. Clean up the area where you removed it and use bread to pick up any broken glass you may have missed. If your city has a recycling program where they pick up mirrors or broken glass for you, follow the rules for properly identifying and discarding your broken mirror. You also usually don’t have to break the mirror into very fine pieces, since the glass sorter grinds it before transporting it to a recycling facility. You can also recycle your broken mirror yourself if your city or local community has a recycling facility.

Final Thoughts

Getting rid of your old or broken mirror requires being careful and considerate. By taking the necessary safety precautions and properly packaging, labeling, and cleaning up after its removal, you can safely dispose of your mirror with peace-of-mind.

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